Do you have to wait until your second trimester to get a prenatal massage?
This is one of the most common questions I hear from newly pregnant women.
Some spas recommend waiting until after the first trimester because miscarriage is more common during those early weeks of pregnancy. Some massage therapists also haven't received advanced training in prenatal massage and may not feel comfortable working with first-trimester clients.
But here's something important to know: For most uncomplicated pregnancies, you don't have to wait until your second trimester to receive a prenatal massage.
It's normal to feel cautious
Maybe you're worried that something during the massage could affect your baby.
And if you've been trying to conceive for what feels like forever, you may be especially cautious about doing anything that could put your pregnancy at risk.
I understand.
As a certified prenatal and postpartum massage therapist with more than 20 years of experience specializing in pregnancy massage, I use positioning and techniques appropriate for each stage of pregnancy and take time to understand your health history before your session.
Your nervous system deserves support, too
Those early weeks of pregnancy can bring so many emotions. Excitement, uncertainty, worry, and exhaustion—sometimes all in the same day!
Massage can be a wonderful opportunity to slow down, relax, and give your nervous system a chance to settle.
And let's talk about that first-trimester exhaustion.
You're growing an entire human being! If you spend part of your massage drifting off to sleep, I consider that time well spent.
And you get to tell someone!
Here's something I love about first-trimester massage.
Many women wait until the second trimester to share their pregnancy news with friends and family.
But you can tell me!
You can share how excited you are, how nervous you feel, or how you're navigating these early weeks.
I'm here to support you.
What does a first-trimester massage look like?
During the first trimester, many of my clients are still comfortable lying on their stomachs and backs, much like they would during a regular massage.
I make adjustments for comfort, including extra support for tender breasts when lying face down.
As your pregnancy progresses, we'll transition to supportive side-lying and semi-reclined positions.
Every pregnancy is different, and your comfort and individual health needs guide how we approach each session.
Ready for some support?
You don't have to wait until you're visibly pregnant to benefit from prenatal massage.
Whether you're six weeks pregnant or approaching your due date, you deserve thoughtful, knowledgeable care.
Interested in prenatal massage? Learn more about my prenatal massage services in Wheat Ridge, Colorado and how I can support you throughout your pregnancy.
Have questions about prenatal massage? I'd love to hear them!